Austin, TX, August 2, 2025
News Summary
The Zachary Scott Theatre Center in Austin is set to hold auditions for two major upcoming productions, ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ and ‘Murder on the Orient Express.’ Aspiring actors are invited to showcase their talents for these engaging performances. Auditions will take place on specified dates with both in-person and video submission options available. The theatre encourages performers from diverse backgrounds to audition, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity in the arts.
Austin, TX – The Zachary Scott Theatre Center is now accepting audition applications for two highly anticipated productions, “Dear Evan Hansen” and “Murder on the Orient Express,” set for its 2025-2026 season. Aspiring actors are encouraged to showcase their talents for these productions featuring engaging narratives and compelling roles.
Audition Details for “Dear Evan Hansen”
Auditions for the acclaimed musical “Dear Evan Hansen” will take place on Monday, August 18, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with a break scheduled from 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM. Interested participants can book their audition appointment by emailing the casting department at casting@zachtheatre.org. For those unable to attend in person, video submissions are welcomed and must be submitted by August 18, 2025, at 11:00 PM CST.
Compensation and Roles
Actors cast in “Dear Evan Hansen” will receive a minimum weekly compensation of $816 based on the LORT 2024-25 rates. The production is looking for Equity actors to fill the following key roles:
- Evan Hansen: Male-identifying, 17 years old, pop tenor (G2-B4).
- Zoe Murphy: Female-identifying, 16 years old, pop soprano (F3-E5).
- Alana Beck: Female-identifying, 17 years old, pop soprano (F3-E5).
- Connor Murphy: Male-identifying, 17 years old, pop bari-tenor (G2-G4).
- Jared Kleinman: Male-identifying, 17 years old, pop tenor (A2-B4).
- Cynthia Murphy: Female-identifying, 40s-50s, pop soprano (F#3-E5).
- Larry Murphy: Male-identifying, 40s, strong pop vocalist (F#2-G4).
- Understudy for Heidi Hansen: Female-identifying, 40s-50s, pop alto (F#3-E5).
Production Schedule
Rehearsals for “Dear Evan Hansen” will commence on March 17, 2026, with performances running from April 8, 2026, until May 31, 2026.
Audition Details for “Murder on the Orient Express”
Auditions for the thrilling mystery play “Murder on the Orient Express” are scheduled for Wednesday, August 13, 2025, between 3:00 PM and 11:00 PM, with a break from 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM. Similar to the previous production, video submissions must be received by August 13, 2025, at 11:00 PM CST for those unable to audition in person. Compensation mirrors that of “Dear Evan Hansen” at $816 weekly.
Roles Available
The production seeks Equity actors for various roles, including:
- Hercule Poirot: Male-identifying, 40s-60s, Belgian accent.
- Monsieur Bouc: Male-identifying, 30s-60s, Belgian accent.
- Mary Debenham: Female-identifying, 20s-40s, standard British accent.
- Hector MacQueen: Male-identifying, 20s-50s, American accent.
- Michel the Conductor/Head Waiter: Male-identifying, 30s-50s, French or Turkish accent.
- Princess Natalya Dragomiroff: Female-identifying, 40s-70s, Russian accent.
- Greta Ohlsson: Female-identifying, 20s-40s, Swedish accent.
- Countess Elena Andreyni: Female-identifying, 20s-40s, Hungarian accent.
- Mrs. Helen Hubbard: Female-identifying, 40s-70s, American accent.
- Colonel James Arbuthnot/Samuel Ratchett: Male-identifying, 30s-50s, Scottish and American accents.
- Daisy Armstrong: Female-identifying, American, 4-10 years old.
Production Schedule
Rehearsals for “Murder on the Orient Express” will begin on December 30, 2025, and performances will be held from January 21, 2026 to March 1, 2026.
Inclusivity at Zach Theatre
The Zachary Scott Theatre Center is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment and encourages performers of all ethnicities, gender identities, ages, and abilities to audition.
Upcoming Season Highlights
This upcoming season marks an exciting opportunity for the theatre, including the regional premiere of “Dear Evan Hansen,” along with other significant productions such as “Come From Away” and a new work by Suzan-Lori Parks titled “Sally & Tom.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the audition dates for “Dear Evan Hansen” and “Murder on the Orient Express”?
Auditions for “Dear Evan Hansen” are on August 18, 2025, and for “Murder on the Orient Express” on August 13, 2025.
How can I submit a video audition?
Video submissions must be sent by the audition date at 11:00 PM CST. Email the casting department for specific instructions.
What is the compensation for the cast members?
Actors will receive a minimum weekly compensation of $816 based on LORT 2024-25 rates.
Are there any specific roles that are being cast?
Yes, there are various roles for both shows, including lead characters and understudies. Equity actors are encouraged to apply.
Key Features Chart
| Production | Audition Date | Compensation | Rehearsals Start | Performance Dates |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dear Evan Hansen | August 18, 2025 | $816/week | March 17, 2026 | April 8 – May 31, 2026 |
| Murder on the Orient Express | August 13, 2025 | $816/week | December 30, 2025 | January 21 – March 1, 2026 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Zachary Scott Theatre Announces Auditions for ‘Murder on the Orient Express’
Additional Resources
- Playbill: Dear Evan Hansen Austin Auditions
- Wikipedia: Acting
- Broadway World: Zach Theatre 2025-26 Season
- Google Search: Zachary Scott Theatre Center
- CBS Austin: Waitress at Zach Theatre
- Google Scholar: Theatre Audition Process
- Statesman: Zach Theatre Revives Love Letters
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Theater Productions
- KXAN: Grand Hotel Musical at Zach Theatre
- Google News: Zachary Scott Theatre Center

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